Read the original article ("10 Kiddie Tricks for Small Homes") in the July 2011 issue of Real Living Magazine. To download a digital copy of Real Living Magazine, visit Summit Newsstand at http://summitnewsstand.com.ph/real-living.

INSTALL A MESSAGE BOARD

Spruce up a plain and boring wall with a message board that can be used to list down homework and projects. Friends of your tween or teen can also leave notes on this space.

KEEP TOYS ABOVE THE DOOR

Install a shelf in the unused space above the door for some of your child’s belongings.

TRY PLASTIC CHAIRS

To furnish the study area, invest in affordable, durable and easy-to-store plastic chairs in different colors.

MAKE AN ACCENT WALL

Define one corner of the bedroom with a simple accent wall.

STORE AND DISPLAY TOYS

Use a display case to store, organize and display your child’s book and toy collection.

USE SLIM SHELVES

Opt for wall-mounted shelves for your child’s favorite toys.

CHOOSE A DAYBED

Interior designer Kathryn Villanueva completed a little girl’s room with a charming daybed instead of an ordinary bed. A child can use this as a sofa to play or study on during the day.

ONE COLOR SCHEME FOR A SHARED BEDROOM

For a bedroom shared by two or more children, choose one color scheme to create a simple and clean look.

NURSERY IN THE BEDROOM

Turn a corner of your bedroom into a nursery with a changing table, a nightlight, and decorative touches like framed pictures.

ADD A SOFA BED

If you have your own nursery, opt for a sofa bed for you or your child’s nanny. It can also serve as a seat for when you feed or play with your baby.